Capsule wardrobe with a bit of style?

[kookieboo]

Hello, I wonder if anyone can help...I'm almost 56, size 16/18 on bottom half but 36jj on top and very self conscious. I tend to wear a lot of black or navy on top and flowy stuff which probably makes me look bigger but anything tight would make me feel even more self conscious.
Want to smarten myself up and add a bit of style but I don't know where to start. I guess I never really grew out of the student look of the late 80's/early 90's so tend to go quite casual. Always wear trousers because a dress that flatters my shape is really hard to find. I'm after a miracle but does anyone have any suggestions of what to add for a bit more oopmh or places to shop? Mid range budget. Thanks

A few more questions- what kind of shoes do you tend to wear? And jewellery? And do you like to wear make up?

I wonder if you wear what you wear because it works, you basically like it and it’s “you” and if the most realistic answer therefore would be a smaller change - hair, for example.

Do you tend to feel underdressed or if it that you’re getting bored with your look?

This is probably beyond budget but it’s worth looking at the brand and seeing what’s available in their sales, or even pre-owned. High end, rather varied products; the odd lovely thing. Larger sizes are their speciality.

https://gb.marinarinaldi.com/p-7226294106002-uta-pink

Alternatively and less expensive, you’re sure to find something at Beyond Nine:

https://beyondnine.co.uk/collections/shop-all/products/denim-coverall-mid-blue

Thanks for those suggestions...the second link is probably more me as I feel too young for the first brand ( I know I'm not!) . I like the look of a shirt dress but getting one that fits my top half means going to a size 22 and that drowns the rest of me. Same really with jumpsuits. So separates are probably the way forward.
I think I just need a push out of my regular comfort zone...I've developed a uniform but it's dull and boring and people probably think I always look the same.
I'm happy with my hair. I don't wear much make up and if I do I keep it very natural looking. I wear stud earrings and nothing else really.

Never heard of beyond nine and some of those jersey jumpsuits look super comfy. I'd like to concentrate on getting something nice for work to begin with though... probably separates. And maybe some nice necklaces that would add interest to a plain top? But not draw attention to my bust?

So … Why not buy the size 22 dress and have it altered to fit you?

Mass produced clothes aren’t made to fit any but very standard figures - everyone else really does need to be prepared to make friends with their local alterations service. Obviously it will cost whatever it costs but it’s surely better to have a few clothes that fit well, rather than a wardrobe of things you don’t much want?

I think this is one of those cases where a body analysis would be helpful

You sound as if you are a "strawberry" or "inverted triangle" shape - Usually blessed by good legs!

This is a good starting place for a search or there are a few online stylist where you can pay for an analysis. There is one who does a mini analysis (£10) and sends an off the shelf list (£10) of current items in store that would suit.

Have a look on instagram and Pinterest too

Trying to think where else you could look …

I know these two do ‘Curve’ ranges:

ASOS
Community Clothing (Made in Britain.)

And these have ‘Extended sizes’:

The Reformation
Ganni

I suspect

Palava

would not be your sort of thing but they go up to a size 26 in some things and their clothes are very cute. And Made in Britain.

@kookieboo have a look at Melissa Murrell on YouTube.

She specialises in capsule wardrobes, and has body shape masterclasses to teach people how to dress for their shape.

Just had a look, and these three videos might be a good place to start for you:

4

3

7

I agree with the previous poster who said get a good seamstress on board.

Your figure won't fit into standard sizing because they rarely take bust cup into account when mass producing. The only one that does is Bravissimo so worth visiting a store. They do clothes as well as bras.

A good seamstress will be able to tailor stuff for you. It's what the P of W does with High Street stuff she wears. It makes a huge difference. Also a lot of manufactured clothes nowadays rarely use darts and tucks so they never fit anyone properly particularly cheap clothes.

Gosh thanks everyone really helpful and thanks for taking the time to reply. Ohwhattodo I'll sit and watch those YouTube videos later today 👍

Sadly don't think my legs are all that great...sturdy...knees are a bit chubby...my shoulders are quite narrow which doesn't help with huge boobs! Gosh roll on cold weather life is easier when I can cover up more! 😂
Thanks again though.

would recommend having a look at this lady too @kookieboo

https://www.youtube.com/@Helenmaryjo

Check out Mollie Campsie on instagram